Dombrowski hinted during Jhonny Peralta's conference call Monday that the middle-of-the-lineup hitter would likely come in the form of an outfielder or a designated hitter. The Tigers are also reportedly interested in acquiring a catcher to complement already-named starting catcher Alex Avila and have spoken about the need for a left-handed presence behind first baseman Miguel Cabrera.

The Boston Red Sox are reportedly trying to re-sign the switch-hitting Martinez, but the four-time All-Star is expected to leave the organization in pursuit of free agency and a bigger contract, sources told WEEI.com. Martinez, who hit .302 with 20 homers in 2010, seemingly appeals to nearly a dozen clubs, including the Chicago White Sox, Seattle Mariners and Los Angeles Angels, but the Tigers might have the most leverage.

Despite his desire to be a full-time catcher, Tigers pitcher Armando Galarraga told Morosi that money will likely play a large role in where Martinez signs.

"Catching to him is very important, but you know what? It’s about the money, too," Galarraga told Fox Sports. "He’s a free agent. He wants to sign a good contract."

Morosi said Martinez, who turned down Boston's two-year offer in September, would be
wise to sign with a team early this offseason due to his ability to hit
from both sides of the plate and play multiple positions. Once teams "begin checking off their respective shopping lists, Martinez will lose
part of his leverage," Morosi reports.

"He wants to get four or five years. Whatever team gives it to him, he’ll feel comfortable there. If the Tigers offer that, they’ve got a good shot," Galarraga said. "He knows the division. Detroit has a couple other Venezuelan players. But I don’t know anything for sure."